Contemporary architectural styles have evolved quite a bit since the early years of architecture. Some say that we are in an era of Neoclassical, which is characterized by clean lines and proportions with little to no ornamentation.

Other styles focus more heavily on decorations and patterning, creating what some call “decorated” or “patterned” modernism.

Then there are those who argue that our current architectural style is one that looks like it was ripped from a sci-fi movie; this style is called Postmodern.

Some even describe today’s most popular trends as Neo-, Deco-, or Futurist-style design. All of these refer to different types of decorative patterns and shapes used for structures.

But before all of these, architects designed buildings using classical techniques. These designs were very structured and organized, making use of strong vertical and horizontal elements. The proportions of the building also played a significant part in how well it was designed.

The Greek Golden Age

During this period, architecture was still considered to be an art form, but one that had its own special style or technique. Architects were not trained in mathematics or geometry, so instead they relied on their artistic ability to design buildings.

Architecture is sometimes described as a language of shapes, patterns, colors, and textures. An architect uses these tools to make creative designs for structures such as homes or offices.

During the golden age of Greece, many famous architects built beautiful masterpieces that have been preserved for future generations to admire. These include buildings designed by Myron, Iktinos, Kalliopos, Polykleitos, Dinocrates, and Speusippus.

Many of these architects are known for using strong lines, proportionate sizes, and symmetrical decorations in their works. All of them used the natural landscape around them as inspiration for their building styles.

The Romans

After Greece, Rome is one of the next great architectural empires that sprung up during ancient times. Ancient Rome was an empire built upon conquest and domination. They constructed vast networks of roads and buildings to facilitate this process.

In their quest for land, the Romans were very conscious about how well their structures would stand up to nature. During rainy seasons, you can find roofs designed to let water run off or even drainage systems where water is channeled away.

These designs allowed for more efficient draining and drying of rainwater. Since most cities are surrounded by natural barriers such as hills and mountains, the Romans also designed their buildings with energy-saving cooling techniques.

They often left out interior windows and white paint to reduce heat absorption. In hot climates, they used ventilation systems like those we have today.

The Roman Empire lasted from around 300 BC until AD 476, making it one of the five longest lasting power centers in history. It’s hard to overestimate just how influential the Romans became throughout Europe and beyond.

Many modern countries use some element of the Roman architecture style, whether it’s the floor plan or specific features. For example, the rounded arch comes directly from the arches they built into many of their roadways and buildings.

This article will go over the different styles of architecture used during the Roman era. Then, I will talk about three of my favorite buildings that follow the classical Roman design principles.

The Gothic

The gothic style was first seen in France during the late 1300s, where it was built off of Roman architecture. It is characterized by its use of ribbing and vaults as structure components.

The most well-known example of this style is Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. This cathedral has an elaborate facade that features ornate tracery (window patterns) and pinnacles (spires with circular or pyramidal tops).

This style quickly spread across Europe and then Asia, and even made its way into North America! There are many examples of gothics throughout history and around the world — look at any church you like!

Some say the popularity of the gothic style died out in the early Renaissance due to the expensive nature of importing large amounts stone for construction. But others believe there’s just not enough natural stone left in the world to create more goths!

Either way, this style will always remain popular because it makes very beautiful buildings that appeal to both aesthists and God.

The European Renaissance

During this period, architecture flourished in many parts of Europe. This was due to several reasons. For one, most countries during this time were either under imperial rule or as an empire. Powerful rulers commissioned beautiful buildings and structures that showcased their wealth and status.

Second, many powerful religious institutions needed large spaces for worship. Cathedrals, churches, and mosques all require space to function effectively.

Third, individual people wanted to show off how rich they became through success. Business owners built extravagant mansions or palatial homes.

The architects and artisans behind these designs learned new techniques from other fields like sculpture, painting, and proportion.

These concepts then melded together into unique styles that are recognizable today.

The Baroque

During this period, architecture took on many new forms that are still seen in our contemporary styles. One of the major trends was called baroque. This style is characterized by elaborate decorations and shapes that emphasize curvature.

The word “baroque” comes from the Italian for “exaggerated.” An example of baroque design would be taking something simple like a roof or column and making it very ornate and extravagant.

This style flourished during the 18th century and you can see it in buildings such as Saint Peter’s Cathedral in Rome and Chiesa del Gesu in Milan. Both of these churches use heavy amounts of decoration to make their structures stand out.

Not only did architects add lots of detail, but they also used dramatic lighting and proportion variations to create an atmosphere. These types of designs influenced later periods of art and architecture.

The Industrial Revolution

During this period, human civilization was transformed through the invention of tools and machinery. Tools such as the hammer, saw, and compass allowed us to produce ever more complex machines and devices.

Architecture is heavily influenced by the use of these tools and technology. For example, the arches used in Gothic architecture are inspired by nature – boughs, leaves, and veins being some examples.

The cathedrals built during this time utilized heavy use of stone and iron for structural support.

Contemporary Architecture

Modern architecture is an interesting style to explore. It was coined in 1920 by Le Corbusier, one of France’s most famous architects. He rejected traditional notions of beauty and instead focused on shapes and materials.

Modernism stuck around for only a few decades before giving way to more organic styles. The term “post-modern” was used to describe art or architectural styles that were influenced by modernism.

Since then, we have seen many different architectures fall under the post-modern umbrella. These include everything from minimalist designs to ones with lots of bright colors and patterns.

Contemporary architecture is still very much inspired by nature and natural forms, but it no longer follows exact rules set down by classical Greeks and Romans.

Popular Architecture Styles

There are many different styles of architecture that have become popular over time, some sticking around for good reason. Some buildings remain iconic representations of their style and influence even today.

Many consider Frank Lloyd Wright’s work to be one of the most influential styles in modern architectural design. He designed everything from homes to skyscrapers with his unique organic shapes, colors, and textures. His aesthetic is easily recognizable due to its simplicity.

Other famous architects such as Antoni Gaudí incorporated lots of symbolic references into their designs. These include themes like plants, trees, and geometrical patterns.

Some designers choose to mix and match elements from various architectures to create something new. An example of this would be incorporating curved roofs from gabled roof lines into otherwise square or rectangular structures. A classic example of this can be seen at the United Nations Building in New York City.